2Plys is an architectural firm specializing in real estate development solutions, primarily focusing on multifamily, urban infill and spec homes. Since its start in 2012, 2Plys has designed and entitled more than 600 projects ranging from new custom single-family homes to 50-unit apartment buildings. Founder and owner, Adam Crain, started the company while living in the Washington DC metro area, and in 2018 moved to Kirkland with his family. Kirkland Lifestyle had the opportunity to catch up with Adam onsite of one his most recent Kirkland projects.
Adam’s architectural style philosophy is client-led, and that rings true in this project. “I've found that most homeowners already have a style in mind when they call an architect, they just need help organizing the vision. Some architects have a defined aesthetic or brand that distinguishes them and that clients hire them for, but we are less rigid,” says Adam.
The lot for this Kirkland house was carved out of the backyards of two adjacent properties the client owned, and there's a grove of very large cedar trees there that create a special tranquil feeling. “You're totally removed from the suburban street, and everything quiets down as soon as you pull in. The client wanted to enhance that feeling with a new modern home that tiptoes around the trees and sits amongst them,” says Adam. The house reflects a material palette the homeowner had in mind from the beginning: metal-clad facade, wood accents, and an overall simple form. An extra wide and tall front door and long hallway creates a stunning view from the front door through the rear that is aligned with two trees in a slight 'V' shape, drawing the line of sight to the ancient grove beyond the house. A special outdoor feature includes a huge, cantilevered roof over the rear deck to make it usable year-round, with steps down into the yard to experience the trees.
“This project was a special one, as we became friends with the clients during the process,” says Adam. Which reflects one of Adam’s most recommended pieces of advice: enjoy the people you are working with! “Projects tend to be best when everyone gets along from the start, with personalities that jive well. There's going to be a LOT of discussions over the lifetime of a project, so make sure you enjoy talking to each other,” says Adam. He also highly recommends working with someone who has experience in your project type. “It's important to stay in your lane, and work with someone who specializes in what you are wanting.”
What’s currently ahead for 2plys? Adam has recently assembled a little over a half-acre in Finn Hill and is working on designing and developing a 'pocket neighborhood' of cottages with a mix of one, two, and three bedroom units. “I enjoy designing small homes that use space well without excess and require the cleverness of efficiency, both in the layout of a home and in the use of a site. This probably stems from having worked on so many developments that we were tasked to balance adding units with keeping them livable,” says Adam. Their Finn Hill project puts this philosophy into practice! “We want to create an enjoyable community for downsizing older folks, singles, and families, all around a shared central lawn,” says Adam.
For more information, visit 2plys.com